Transgender Therapists in Strathroy, ON

Felicia Otchet
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Strathroy, ON N7G
Dr. Otchet is a psychologist who works in private practice in London, Ontario. She sees adults presenting with a range of health and/or mental health concerns, including medical and/or psychological disability, acute and/or chronic pain, depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress, and gender dysphoria. She has particular interests in adjustment to illness and injury, in trauma and resilience, and in coping with life transitions. She also has interest in working with first responders and their adult family members, as well as people who work in health care.
Dr. Otchet is a psychologist who works in private practice in London, Ontario. She sees adults presenting with a range of health and/or mental health concerns, including medical and/or psychological disability, acute and/or chronic pain, depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress, and gender dysphoria. She has particular interests in adjustment to illness and injury, in trauma and resilience, and in coping with life transitions. She also has interest in working with first responders and their adult family members, as well as people who work in health care.
(226) 773-9091 View (226) 773-9091
Photo of Devon Church - Devon Church RN, Psychotherapy - Sex Therapy 🌈, BScN
Devon Church RN, Psychotherapy - Sex Therapy 🌈
RN, Psychotherapist, BScN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Strathroy, ON N7G  (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm a firm believer that therapy doesn't have to feel like a trip to the dentist. I specialize in awkward topics, it's important to me that our conversations feel like you're talking to a trusted friend. I help individuals, relationships (mono & ENM) as well as polycules & whole family units. I offer a compassion focused therapy model, often coupled with CBT strategies & dad jokes to help us work through the tough stuff. As an RN Psychotherapist, I not only know traditional psychotherapy techniques but I have knowledge in anatomy/physiology, medication management and I've taken specific education focused in sex therapy.
Welcome! I'm a firm believer that therapy doesn't have to feel like a trip to the dentist. I specialize in awkward topics, it's important to me that our conversations feel like you're talking to a trusted friend. I help individuals, relationships (mono & ENM) as well as polycules & whole family units. I offer a compassion focused therapy model, often coupled with CBT strategies & dad jokes to help us work through the tough stuff. As an RN Psychotherapist, I not only know traditional psychotherapy techniques but I have knowledge in anatomy/physiology, medication management and I've taken specific education focused in sex therapy.
(226) 702-2740 View (226) 702-2740
Photo of Carol Ann Nisbet, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Carol Ann Nisbet
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Strathroy, ON N7G
There are often times in our lives that create challenges and stress. When we feel overwhelmed and unable to manage, there are professionals, like myself, who want to help you return to living your best possible life. Challenges that feel unmanageable may result in us feeling lost, sad, anxious, or alone. You may experience grief, loss, stress relating to responsibilities such as caring for others, or career changes. Whenever experiences like these arise, there are caring professionals here to help. It would be my pleasure to provide a safe space for you to reflect and learn how to successfully move forward and feel better.
There are often times in our lives that create challenges and stress. When we feel overwhelmed and unable to manage, there are professionals, like myself, who want to help you return to living your best possible life. Challenges that feel unmanageable may result in us feeling lost, sad, anxious, or alone. You may experience grief, loss, stress relating to responsibilities such as caring for others, or career changes. Whenever experiences like these arise, there are caring professionals here to help. It would be my pleasure to provide a safe space for you to reflect and learn how to successfully move forward and feel better.
(226) 639-5537 View (226) 639-5537
Photo of Margareta Adriana Vanderheyden, RP, CCC, CHyp, MA, BA, Registered Psychotherapist
Margareta Adriana Vanderheyden
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CCC, CHyp, MA, BA
Verified Verified
Strathroy, ON N7G
As a Registered Psychotherapist and Certified Canadian Counsellor, I have worked with individuals, couples, and families since 1993. My work employs cognitive behavioral and mindfulness therapy. I believe that we have an immense power to change our lives, and to overcome life's greatest challenges if we are self aware. Using an integrated model of therapeutic intervention which focuses on your strengths, we work together to increase your self awareness, help you identify options and choices so that you can work differently with the issue you face. Through self understanding and education, you become more resourceful in responding to life's challenges.
As a Registered Psychotherapist and Certified Canadian Counsellor, I have worked with individuals, couples, and families since 1993. My work employs cognitive behavioral and mindfulness therapy. I believe that we have an immense power to change our lives, and to overcome life's greatest challenges if we are self aware. Using an integrated model of therapeutic intervention which focuses on your strengths, we work together to increase your self awareness, help you identify options and choices so that you can work differently with the issue you face. Through self understanding and education, you become more resourceful in responding to life's challenges.
(226) 407-6083 View (226) 407-6083
Photo of Lisa J. Smith, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Lisa J. Smith
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Strathroy, ON N7G
Life will bring challenges and difficult times causing confusion, fear, anxiety, depression
and numbness. We also experience transitions and losses, not only through the death of people we love, but loss of our health, relationships, jobs. Maybe you are a Health Care Provider with moral injury as a result of your challenging work? Chronic stressors can bring up feelings of fear and a lack of belief that we can cope. Some events and relationships may leave deeper, traumatic wounds. Sometimes it just feels like it is all ‘too much’. Whatever challenge brings you here, together we can work with and process these feelings.
Life will bring challenges and difficult times causing confusion, fear, anxiety, depression
and numbness. We also experience transitions and losses, not only through the death of people we love, but loss of our health, relationships, jobs. Maybe you are a Health Care Provider with moral injury as a result of your challenging work? Chronic stressors can bring up feelings of fear and a lack of belief that we can cope. Some events and relationships may leave deeper, traumatic wounds. Sometimes it just feels like it is all ‘too much’. Whatever challenge brings you here, together we can work with and process these feelings.
(226) 840-6657 View (226) 840-6657
Photo of Dakota Grass, BSW, RSW, RP(Q), Registered Social Worker
Dakota Grass
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Strathroy, ON N7G
I offer emotion-focused psychotherapy with individuals who have experienced relational trauma to assist in processing core emotions. I also work with couples who have experienced trauma and experience difficulties communicating effectively with each other. I offer substance use counselling related to exploring change, harm reduction, abstinence, and relapse prevention strategies. I am passionate about working with LGBTQIA+ individuals and thoroughly enjoy working with youth and young adults. I offer services through Blueprint Counselling, a London-based private practice.
I offer emotion-focused psychotherapy with individuals who have experienced relational trauma to assist in processing core emotions. I also work with couples who have experienced trauma and experience difficulties communicating effectively with each other. I offer substance use counselling related to exploring change, harm reduction, abstinence, and relapse prevention strategies. I am passionate about working with LGBTQIA+ individuals and thoroughly enjoy working with youth and young adults. I offer services through Blueprint Counselling, a London-based private practice.
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sarah Breedon, RP, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Sarah Breedon
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP
Verified Verified
Komoka, ON N0L
I am accepting new clients in-person in Komoka at London Trauma Therapy. My priority in session is that you feel safe, heard, and valued because the work we do together can be scary, at times, and it can also be life-changing. I bring my authentic self to each session. That includes compassion, curiosity, and humour.
I am accepting new clients in-person in Komoka at London Trauma Therapy. My priority in session is that you feel safe, heard, and valued because the work we do together can be scary, at times, and it can also be life-changing. I bring my authentic self to each session. That includes compassion, curiosity, and humour.
(226) 798-1047 View (226) 798-1047

Online Therapists

Photo of Gavynn McKay, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Gavynn McKay
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2C  (Online Only)
Finding the right therapist can be scary and overwhelming but incredibly rewarding in the end. Hello! I am queer, transgender, autistic, and have ADHD. These intersecting identities shape my experiences and influence my therapy approach. I am empathetic, client-centered, and I create a safe, judgment-free space for you to open up at your own pace. As someone who has accessed mental health services, I know how important it is to feel heard and supported by your therapist. Because of this, I work with you to ensure you are feeling effectively supported and comfortable. Social media: Tik Tok and Instagram: rainbowgalaxyocunselling
Finding the right therapist can be scary and overwhelming but incredibly rewarding in the end. Hello! I am queer, transgender, autistic, and have ADHD. These intersecting identities shape my experiences and influence my therapy approach. I am empathetic, client-centered, and I create a safe, judgment-free space for you to open up at your own pace. As someone who has accessed mental health services, I know how important it is to feel heard and supported by your therapist. Because of this, I work with you to ensure you are feeling effectively supported and comfortable. Social media: Tik Tok and Instagram: rainbowgalaxyocunselling
(226) 407-7173 View (226) 407-7173
Photo of Christina Belcastro - Virtual LGBTQ+ Therapy, Rainbow Counselling, Registered Psychotherapist
Virtual LGBTQ+ Therapy, Rainbow Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London, ON N5Y  (Online Only)
Are you, your relationship or family looking for a therapist with lived experience & knowledge of 2SLGBTQ identities? We are a completely virtual 2SLGBTQ+ Affirming Clinic and support folks all over Ontario, Canada. We value anti-oppressive and trauma informed approaches to counselling. Our therapists understand the importance of bridging the gap in accessible mental health care for queer and transgender folks. Our therapists specialize in topics including: Autism, ADHD, Neurodivergent, Non-Monogamy, Polyamory, Healing Trauma, CPTSD, Relational Wounds, Betrayal, Exploring Sexuality & Gender.
Are you, your relationship or family looking for a therapist with lived experience & knowledge of 2SLGBTQ identities? We are a completely virtual 2SLGBTQ+ Affirming Clinic and support folks all over Ontario, Canada. We value anti-oppressive and trauma informed approaches to counselling. Our therapists understand the importance of bridging the gap in accessible mental health care for queer and transgender folks. Our therapists specialize in topics including: Autism, ADHD, Neurodivergent, Non-Monogamy, Polyamory, Healing Trauma, CPTSD, Relational Wounds, Betrayal, Exploring Sexuality & Gender.
(289) 805-6169 View (289) 805-6169
Photo of Steven Ross - Steven Ross Therapy, RSW, LCSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Steven Ross Therapy
Registered Social Worker, RSW, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
London, ON N6J
I am an RSW LCSW psychotherapist with a private practice in Toronto and NY serving clients via video in Ontario. I tend to see a broad assortment of people, many who are suffering from depression, anxiety, stress, and difficulty coping. Some struggle with being single, others within their relationship, or with their sexual authenticity. Together through talk therapy, we can find a pathway to a deeper understanding and a way to move forward with confidence and security My clients are from different worlds, heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, transgender, non-binary, young and old, single, married, and all those in-between.
I am an RSW LCSW psychotherapist with a private practice in Toronto and NY serving clients via video in Ontario. I tend to see a broad assortment of people, many who are suffering from depression, anxiety, stress, and difficulty coping. Some struggle with being single, others within their relationship, or with their sexual authenticity. Together through talk therapy, we can find a pathway to a deeper understanding and a way to move forward with confidence and security My clients are from different worlds, heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, transgender, non-binary, young and old, single, married, and all those in-between.
(647) 694-7802 View (647) 694-7802
Photo of Phe Wong - Inner Flux Counselling Services - Phe Wong, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Inner Flux Counselling Services - Phe Wong
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
London, ON N6L  (Online Only)
Be You! Hello, I'm Phe (fee), a Queer, Chinese-Canadian Psychotherapist here to advocate alongside of you. You can count on me to provide a safe, accepting, and affirming space. Together, we can work on exploration and formation of: sexual identity, gender identity, ethnic/racial identity. I'm here to help when it comes to: LGBTQ2SA+ issues, questioning identity, minority stress, racial trauma, "coming out", confidence and self-esteem, trauma, shame and guilt, anxiety, depression, gender dysphoria, body dysmorphia, and pre/post transition support.
Be You! Hello, I'm Phe (fee), a Queer, Chinese-Canadian Psychotherapist here to advocate alongside of you. You can count on me to provide a safe, accepting, and affirming space. Together, we can work on exploration and formation of: sexual identity, gender identity, ethnic/racial identity. I'm here to help when it comes to: LGBTQ2SA+ issues, questioning identity, minority stress, racial trauma, "coming out", confidence and self-esteem, trauma, shame and guilt, anxiety, depression, gender dysphoria, body dysmorphia, and pre/post transition support.
(226) 243-6972 View (226) 243-6972
Photo of Jennifer Lane, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Jennifer Lane
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L9K
I work primarily with the queer community, and specifically with transgender folks navigating their identity and the transition process.
Life can be difficult - we all go through struggles as we navigate the ups and downs of our experience. This can be further complicated when we're a member of a minority or marginalized group. As a queer woman myself, I am passionate about working with other queer individuals to help them explore and discover who they are, and how they want to express themselves in the world. Whether you're struggling with your sexuality, gender identity, depression, anxiety, or just having a hard time managing stress and life changes - I'm here to help!
I work primarily with the queer community, and specifically with transgender folks navigating their identity and the transition process.
Life can be difficult - we all go through struggles as we navigate the ups and downs of our experience. This can be further complicated when we're a member of a minority or marginalized group. As a queer woman myself, I am passionate about working with other queer individuals to help them explore and discover who they are, and how they want to express themselves in the world. Whether you're struggling with your sexuality, gender identity, depression, anxiety, or just having a hard time managing stress and life changes - I'm here to help!
(226) 786-0867 View (226) 786-0867
Photo of Sandra Harrison, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Sandra Harrison
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H
I have extensive training in transgender health care.
Are you feeling burdened, overwhelmed or numb? Perhaps you sometimes experience emotions that come out of nowhere, or seem inappropriate for the situation you are in. Do you want more fulfillment in your life and your relationships? These experiences are common for many of us, and can be an important indicator that we need a safe and supportive space to process difficult circumstances or heal from trauma. Every person has inner resources and gifts to help them heal and find balance. My goal is to compassionately support you in understanding patterns that have you feeling stuck and to explore your inner world.
I have extensive training in transgender health care.
Are you feeling burdened, overwhelmed or numb? Perhaps you sometimes experience emotions that come out of nowhere, or seem inappropriate for the situation you are in. Do you want more fulfillment in your life and your relationships? These experiences are common for many of us, and can be an important indicator that we need a safe and supportive space to process difficult circumstances or heal from trauma. Every person has inner resources and gifts to help them heal and find balance. My goal is to compassionately support you in understanding patterns that have you feeling stuck and to explore your inner world.
(226) 270-4976 View (226) 270-4976
Photo of Nadine Lulu, MEd, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Nadine Lulu
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ingersoll, ON N5C
I also work with couples and families (14 years +) and am LGBTQ+ positive with special interest in transgender support.
At some point, we all face emotional challenges that make coping difficult. I am a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) who has treated anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues (couples, teen-parent, parent-child, etc.) and other client issues since 1999. I am well know for my no-nonsense client-focused approach which incorporates humour, teaching new skills and learning new ways of thinking and being more joyful, deliberate and present in the world.
I also work with couples and families (14 years +) and am LGBTQ+ positive with special interest in transgender support.
At some point, we all face emotional challenges that make coping difficult. I am a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) who has treated anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues (couples, teen-parent, parent-child, etc.) and other client issues since 1999. I am well know for my no-nonsense client-focused approach which incorporates humour, teaching new skills and learning new ways of thinking and being more joyful, deliberate and present in the world.
(226) 780-8823 View (226) 780-8823
Photo of Bas Yalda, CYC, BSW, MSW, RSW , Registered Social Worker
Bas Yalda
Registered Social Worker, CYC, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Windsor, ON N9A  (Online Only)
Hello! I am Bas, and I am excited to welcome new clients. It's a pleasure to have you here. Putting yourself first can be challenging, but it's a journey filled with hope, potential for growth, and a commitment to a better future. With extensive experience in addressing various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, gender dysphoria, OCD, and relationship issues, I provide a holistic, trauma-informed, non-judgmental, unbiased, and anti-oppressive approach to offer you the best support and understanding possible.
Hello! I am Bas, and I am excited to welcome new clients. It's a pleasure to have you here. Putting yourself first can be challenging, but it's a journey filled with hope, potential for growth, and a commitment to a better future. With extensive experience in addressing various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, gender dysphoria, OCD, and relationship issues, I provide a holistic, trauma-informed, non-judgmental, unbiased, and anti-oppressive approach to offer you the best support and understanding possible.
(226) 784-1714 View (226) 784-1714
Photo of Hannah Bailey, BA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Hannah Bailey
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2H  (Online Only)
I also specialize in counselling 2SLGBTQ+ clients who are interested in working towards goals, such as: exploring sexuality or gender identity, learning ways to manage gender dysphoria symptoms , navigating homo/bi/transphobia in various contexts, navigating relationships with family and/or friends after coming out, etc.
Hi, my name is Hannah. I use she/her and they/them pronouns. I believe every client is different and deserves their own unique therapy experience. Before we begin our work together, we will create a collaborative treatment plan, informed by your goals for therapy. My approach is gentle, with a hint of compassionate confrontation. I embrace an anti-oppressive framework, with intentional attunement to the intersections of your identity (e.g. gender, race, age, sexual orientation, etc.). Knowing how difficult therapy can be, I also try to bring humour into my sessions as much as possible.
I also specialize in counselling 2SLGBTQ+ clients who are interested in working towards goals, such as: exploring sexuality or gender identity, learning ways to manage gender dysphoria symptoms , navigating homo/bi/transphobia in various contexts, navigating relationships with family and/or friends after coming out, etc.
Hi, my name is Hannah. I use she/her and they/them pronouns. I believe every client is different and deserves their own unique therapy experience. Before we begin our work together, we will create a collaborative treatment plan, informed by your goals for therapy. My approach is gentle, with a hint of compassionate confrontation. I embrace an anti-oppressive framework, with intentional attunement to the intersections of your identity (e.g. gender, race, age, sexual orientation, etc.). Knowing how difficult therapy can be, I also try to bring humour into my sessions as much as possible.
(548) 901-0226 View (548) 901-0226
Photo of Cynthia Galloway, MEd, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Cynthia Galloway
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
London, ON N6C
I have over 30 years experience helping clients cope with a variety of issues, including disordered eating, anxiety, depression, & gender identity concerns. I specialized in eating disorders as a registered dietitian for 25 years & continue to help those with compulsive eating issues to gain insight into what purpose their food & weight-related behaviours are fulfilling & what healthier means are available to meet those needs. I also work with transgender folks at all points of the gender continuum, helping with exploration of gender identity & expression, coming out issues, dealing with transphobia, & referrals for medical care.
I have over 30 years experience helping clients cope with a variety of issues, including disordered eating, anxiety, depression, & gender identity concerns. I specialized in eating disorders as a registered dietitian for 25 years & continue to help those with compulsive eating issues to gain insight into what purpose their food & weight-related behaviours are fulfilling & what healthier means are available to meet those needs. I also work with transgender folks at all points of the gender continuum, helping with exploration of gender identity & expression, coming out issues, dealing with transphobia, & referrals for medical care.
(226) 458-5384 View (226) 458-5384
Photo of Leah Keating, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Leah Keating
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8P
I also conduct psychodiagnostic assessments, learning disability and ADHD assessments, and assessments and referrals for transgender clients seeking gender-affirming medical interventions.
I believe that many symptoms are adaptations intended to provide temporary relief from painful circumstances. However in the longer term, these adaptations can exacerbate distress. My practice focuses on helping people to develop more sustainable ways of coping, including examining your beliefs, accepting difficult emotions, and increasing self-awareness. Issues I work with include PTSD, eating disorders, body image, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and overwhelming emotions. I also work with clients exploring their gender identity and sexual orientation.
I also conduct psychodiagnostic assessments, learning disability and ADHD assessments, and assessments and referrals for transgender clients seeking gender-affirming medical interventions.
I believe that many symptoms are adaptations intended to provide temporary relief from painful circumstances. However in the longer term, these adaptations can exacerbate distress. My practice focuses on helping people to develop more sustainable ways of coping, including examining your beliefs, accepting difficult emotions, and increasing self-awareness. Issues I work with include PTSD, eating disorders, body image, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and overwhelming emotions. I also work with clients exploring their gender identity and sexual orientation.
(647) 493-4282 View (647) 493-4282
Photo of Lorraine M Munro (She They), MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Lorraine M Munro (She They)
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
London, ON N5W
Specific areas of experience include healing from trauma; taking on white fragility; parenting as survivor; work stressors, sex work and non-trad work; non binary, genderqueer, transgender experience; sexuality and relationships, including polyamory, monogamy, kink; and neurodivergence.
As a psychotherapist, I support you in fostering authentic relationships with yourself and your communities. I offer a space for reflection that is non-judgmental, LGBTI2QQ+ positive - and trauma informed. I draw on a variety of approaches, with a focus on what works for you, and the different parts of you.
Specific areas of experience include healing from trauma; taking on white fragility; parenting as survivor; work stressors, sex work and non-trad work; non binary, genderqueer, transgender experience; sexuality and relationships, including polyamory, monogamy, kink; and neurodivergence.
As a psychotherapist, I support you in fostering authentic relationships with yourself and your communities. I offer a space for reflection that is non-judgmental, LGBTI2QQ+ positive - and trauma informed. I draw on a variety of approaches, with a focus on what works for you, and the different parts of you.
(855) 980-1801 View (855) 980-1801
Photo of Cher Canonizado @ Kaleidoscope Counselling Collective🌈, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Cher Canonizado @ Kaleidoscope Counselling Collective🌈
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2A  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Cher! Are you struggling with low self-esteem, mood, or substance use that affects your ability to be authentic & happy? Do you feel like you’re struggling in your relationships, due to communication issues, being gaslit, or abused? In these messed up & tumultuous times, we’re all struggling more than usual. Now more than ever, we’re feeling completely overwhelmed and anxious about how we're supposed to manage it all. It shouldn’t be so hard to live a life that feels good, and I truly believe that therapy can help you make things feel better!
Hi, I’m Cher! Are you struggling with low self-esteem, mood, or substance use that affects your ability to be authentic & happy? Do you feel like you’re struggling in your relationships, due to communication issues, being gaslit, or abused? In these messed up & tumultuous times, we’re all struggling more than usual. Now more than ever, we’re feeling completely overwhelmed and anxious about how we're supposed to manage it all. It shouldn’t be so hard to live a life that feels good, and I truly believe that therapy can help you make things feel better!
(855) 551-0499 View (855) 551-0499

See more therapy options for Strathroy

Transgender Counsellors

As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?

A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.

What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?

Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.

How can I recognise a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?

An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognise a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.

How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?

Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.